Did you know that up to 40% of Coloradans’ summer water is used on landscapes outside? Small changes in how you manage your landscape can save significant amounts of money and water.

Save with proven landscaping practices:

• Replace turf with native or drought-tolerant plants to reduce the water you use. Plus, native and adapted plants are better able to handle Colorado Springs’s summer heat.
• Apply mulch around plants to retain soil moisture and minimize weed growth.
• Explore xeriscaping as an attractive, water-efficient alternative to conventional lawns.

Save with smart watering tactics:

• Follow the district’s voluntary watering restrictions.
• Join one of our free landscape classes. To learn about the next class, call us at 719-392-3475.
• Water before dawn or after dusk to reduce evaporation.
• Inspect irrigation systems for leaks or misaligned sprinkler heads (especially in the spring).
• Use/install drip irrigation or soaker hoses to deliver water directly to plant roots.
• Install rain barrels to capture roof runoff—Colorado law allows up to 110 gallons for outdoor use. Use the collected rainwater for gardens and landscaping during dry periods.

From the kitchen to the bathroom, there are many simple ways to reduce your water use indoors. Below are some effective tips for using less water inside your home.

Save with better fixtures and simple adjustments:

• Fix leaks promptly.
• Install WaterSense-labeled fixtures like showerheads, faucets, and toilets to significantly cut down on usage without sacrificing performance.
• Run only full loads of dishes and laundry to minimize water use.
• Turn off the tap. Don’t let the water run while brushing teeth, shaving, or washing dishes by hand.
• Shorten your showers. Reducing by just a few minutes can save gallons every day.